Legendary Hit-man, Kunioka (2021)

In the whimsical yet gritty action-comedy Legendary Hit-man, Kunioka, directed by Sakamoto, audiences are taken on a wild ride through the underbelly of Kyoto's hitman scene. The film, released in 2021, follows the unconventional journey of Masayuki Kunioka, a freelance hitman whose reputation as the strongest in the city is put to the test when a simple miscommunication leads him to eliminate the wrong target. What unfolds is a chaotic blend of dark humor and dramatic tension as Kunioka finds himself caught in a crossfire between vengeful foes and the discontented client who hired him.

As Sakamoto shadows Kunioka for research purposes, the layers of the hitman's character are gradually unveiled, revealing a surprisingly relatable figure grappling with the consequences of his choices. Themes of loyalty, miscommunication, and the unexpected complexities of a life steeped in violence shine through in this engaging narrative. The film manages to balance thrilling action sequences with comedic moments, showcasing Kunioka’s quirky personality and the absurdities of the hitman lifestyle. With a modest IMDb rating of 6.6, Legendary Hit-man, Kunioka invites viewers to revel in its blend of humor and poignant drama, making it a unique addition to the action genre that doesn't shy away from examining the human side of its larger-than-life characters.